In August a number of United Women in Faith (UWFaith) members and friends went to southeast Colorado to experience the site of the 1864 massacre of more than 150 Cheyenne and Arapaho villagers—mostly women, children, and the elderly. These people were brutally murdered by U.S. troops under the leadership of a Methodist minister and under a flag of truce. This sparked the interest in learning more about Native American History.
As a result, several UWFaith members from different churches are organizing events around Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the United States. We are proud to sponsor a series of inclusive events throughout November, open to all who wish to participate and learn. We don’t have everything in place but wanted you to know about these opportunities to learn, reflect and connect to indigenous communities.
Book Discussions:
We are excited that the author of Witness at Sand Creek, The Life and Letters of Silas Soule will discuss her book via zoom. Rev. Dr. Nancy Niero tells the story of Captain Silas Soule, a young abolitionist turned Union officer who refused to obey orders during the Sand Creek Massacre rather than participate in the slaughter of peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho families, Soule defied his superiors and later testified to what happened. The book discussison will occur at 6:30 p.m. November 17 via zoom. Books are available outside of Amazon marketplace for $20 if you’re interested.
On November 30 at 6:30 p.m. Marcia Canter will lead a book discussion on the novel The Seed Keeper. Diane Wilson's debut novel, "The Seed Keeper," follows the life of Rosalie Iron Wing, a Dakota woman who grapples with her identity and heritage after being separated from her family and culture. The narrative spans several generations, highlighting the struggles faced by Indigenous people, particularly the impact of colonization and the trauma of the boarding school system.
Let Marcia Canter (bomaanka@yahoo.com) know if you’re interested in either the discussions or the purchase of the Witness at Sand Creek book.
Spiritual Walk at Arvada United Methodist Church:
Join us on Saturday mornings (November 8th,15th, 22nd and 29th) for a spiritual walk at Arvada United Methodist Church’s labyrinth, located outside on the west side of the church at 67th and Carr in Arvada. There will be a short reflection prior to the walk.
Trip to Colorado History Museum:
Join former history teacher Sara Harris and experience a powerful educational field trip to the Colorado History Museum to view the Sand Creek exhibit. The exhibit tells the story of the Sand Creek Massacre, acknowledging the profound impact of this tragic event on Indigenous communities. Date will be determined and cost will be museum admission and possibly lunch
Fun Walk/Run Wherever You May be:
Join several UWFaith Presidents who are planning to put in miles between November 1 and November 30. You can pledge a dime a mile or a flat rate or get your own pledge as an encouragement to burn off those extra calories from eating pumpkin pie. You’re welcome to design your own fundraiser pledge as well. Proceeds will go to the Denver Indian Center which has served the American Indian and Alaska Native community of the Denver Metro area for more than 50 years. Their goal is to empower their community through education, advocacy, and cultural enrichment. Proceeds from this event will support youth and children programs at the Center.
Need More Info or To Register:
Contact Marcia Canter at bomaanka@yahoo.com if you are interested in either of these discussions, trip or walk. We would greatly appreciate knowing if you are planning to attend.